Submitted by Yello on Fri, 01/21/2011 - 09:05
Posted in
Isn't it true that Massachusetts law requires telemarketers to identify themselves when they call? In other words, my phone shouldn't say ID is blocked right, and then I find it's a telemarketer when I pick up the phone? Or sometimes I see something like "800 service" and then it's a telemarketer. Also, what is the number to sign up for the do not call registry? Thanks
Do not call registry
Yes, in theory, you should no longer see the "ID unavailable" or "out of the area" messages when a telemarketer calls. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 159C, Section 4 states that "No telephone solicitor shall intentionally cause to be installed or shall intentionally use a blocking device or service to circumvent a consumer’s use of a call identification service or device." However, that law will not solve all of your telemarketer issues.
Your first step should be to register for the do not call list. You sign up for the Massachusetts do not call registry by calling 866-231-2255. Although it can take a few weeks for your number to be placed on the list, this step will at least prevent most telemarketing calls. There are exceptions. Non-commercial polls (like political campaigns), survey takers and tax-exempt charities are still allowed to call you. Also, companies that have some sort of existing business relationship with you can continue to call your home, until you tell them to stop. And the business relationship language is defined fairly broadly. So, if you have ever made an inquiry about the company or their products or services or purchased one of their products or services, they may still call you (again, until you tell them to stop).
Also, last I checked, cell phones are not covered by the Massachusetts do not call program. The federal program does cover cell phones. To register for the federal Do Not Call Registry, call 1-888-382-1222 from the cell phone you wish to register. As discussed above, there may be a waiting period before the registered number becomes off limits to telemarketers. For more general information about consumer rights in Massachusetts, visit our Consumer Law Discussion Forum. Hope that helps.